Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy goulash recipe is beloved for its simplicity and delicious flavors. It’s budget-friendly, can be made with pantry staples, and comes together in less than an hour. The dish is customizable and can easily be adjusted to fit different tastes. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
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1 pound lean ground beef
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1 large yellow onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups marinara sauce or tomato-based pasta sauce
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2 cups beef broth or water (more as needed)
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1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
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3 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
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1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
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1 bay leaf (2 if small)
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
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½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the marinara sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato paste, bell pepper (if using), Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Stir in the elbow macaroni, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Uncover and simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
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Remove the bay leaf, top with cheese if desired, and cover to allow the cheese to melt and the pasta to thicken.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8
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Prep time: 20 minutes
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Cook time: 25 minutes
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Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
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Add diced celery or red bell pepper for extra flavor.
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Stir in Worcestershire sauce or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
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Stretch the meal with extra pasta, water, or canned beans.
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Top with Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, or sour cream for added richness.
Storage/Reheating
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Fridge: Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
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Freezer: Freeze chilled portions in zippered bags for up to 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option.
2. Can I add vegetables to the goulash?
Yes, you can add vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute the elbow macaroni with small shells, bowtie pasta, or ditalini.
4. How can I make goulash spicier?
Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
5. Can I freeze goulash?
Yes, goulash freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container or zippered bag for up to 4 months.
6. How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Be sure to monitor the pasta as it simmers and adjust the cooking time as needed. Stir occasionally and check for tenderness.
7. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to feed a larger crowd. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
8. Can I use water instead of beef broth?
Yes, water can replace beef broth, but using broth will give the dish extra flavor.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the pasta, but you can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute.
10. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this goulash vegetarian, use plant-based ground beef or lentils instead of meat.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Goulash is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to every meal. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding the whole family. Whether you’re making it for dinner tonight or saving it for leftovers, this hearty goulash will quickly become a go-to in your recipe repertoire.
Grandma's Goulash
Grandma’s Goulash is a comforting and easy one-pot meal, combining ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This hearty, budget-friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s the ultimate comfort food that satisfies every time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups marinara sauce or tomato-based pasta sauce
2 cups beef broth or water (more as needed)
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf (2 if small)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
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In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
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Add marinara sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato paste, bell pepper (if using), Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
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Stir in elbow macaroni, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Uncover and simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
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Remove bay leaf, top with cheese if desired, and cover to allow the cheese to melt and the pasta to thicken.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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Variations: Add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, stir in chili flakes or Worcestershire sauce.
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Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 4 months.
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